The Jingxi Ancient Road, located in the western suburbs of Beijing, is a historic route dating back to the Tang Dynasty, offering both cultural and natural beauty. Visitors can walk or bike along the ancient trail, exploring ancient temples, pagodas, and villages along the way. Hiking enthusiasts will enjoy the scenic mountains, while photography lovers will find great spots for capturing traditional Chinese landscapes. Don't miss the nearby Baiwang Mountain for panoramic views of Beijing.

Located in Shuiyuzui Village, Miaofengshan Town, Mentougou District, the Jingxi Ancient Road connects various branch roads running north and south, with the "Xishan Road" as its main artery. Human activity has been present in the Jingji Xishan area for over 100,000 years. Mentougou District connects Shanggu in the north, Zhuoyi in the south, Dai in the west, and Yan and Ji in the east, enjoying a crucial strategic and transportation position.
As a culture, the Ancient Road of Western Beijing is becoming more and more precious. It is an important symbol and historical witness of the ancient civilization of Western Beijing.
There are three ancient roads in the ancient Jingxi Ancient Road, including Pangtan Ancient Road, Yuhe Ancient Road and Wangping Ancient Road. Among them, Wangping Ancient Road is favored by hikers for its rich cultural relics and beautiful scenery.
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Jingxi Ancient Road was a vital route that connected the ancient city of Beijing with the western regions. It was historically used by merchants, travelers, and soldiers. The road is known for its rich history, well-preserved cultural sites, and scenic beauty. The ancient route offers a glimpse into China's past, with remnants of temples, bridges, and pavilions that have stood for centuries.
Jingxi Ancient Road is located to the west of Beijing, near the Baiwang Mountain area. The best way to get there from central Beijing is by taking a taxi or private vehicle. Public buses are also available, with routes leading to the western outskirts. A combination of metro and bus can also be used to reach the nearest station, from where you can walk or take a local taxi.
The Jingxi Ancient Road is open year-round, with no specific closing hours, as it's primarily an outdoor attraction. The best time to visit is during spring (April-May) or autumn (September-November) when the weather is mild and ideal for walking or hiking. Summer can be hot and crowded, while winter may offer a quieter but colder experience.
The Jingxi Ancient Road does not have a formal entrance fee for the main hiking areas, but some sites along the route, like temples or gardens, may have a small admission charge. Tickets can generally be purchased on-site at these locations. Guided tours may also require booking in advance, which can be done both online and offline.
Booking in advance is not required for most areas along the Jingxi Ancient Road, but it's recommended to book guided tours or specific sites, like the Baiwang Mountain observatory, especially during peak tourist seasons. A few days in advance is usually sufficient.
To explore the Jingxi Ancient Road fully, including key landmarks, a half-day or full day is recommended. If you're hiking and visiting multiple temples and villages, you might want to allocate 6-8 hours for the experience. For a more relaxed visit, 3-4 hours will suffice.
Key highlights along the Jingxi Ancient Road include the Baiwang Mountain for stunning views, the ancient temples and pagodas, such as the famous Zhaoyang Temple, and the old bridges that dot the landscape. The surrounding natural scenery, including forested areas and tranquil streams, also adds to the allure.
Guided tours are available, and they typically offer insights into the road's historical significance, as well as the surrounding natural beauty. Most guides are available in Mandarin, but English-speaking guides can be arranged upon request. Audio guides may also be available for certain sites.
Great photography spots include the Baiwang Mountain summit, where you can capture sweeping views of Beijing and the surrounding landscape. The ancient bridges and temples along the road are also perfect for capturing traditional architecture against natural backdrops. Sunset views from the mountain are particularly striking.
A recommended itinerary starts at the Jingxi Ancient Road entrance and follows the main trail to Zhaoyang Temple. From there, hike up Baiwang Mountain for panoramic views of Beijing. Continue along the trail to visit other temples, bridges, and scenic areas. You can end the route by returning to the starting point or visiting a local village for a traditional meal.
Night visits are not common for the Jingxi Ancient Road, as it is primarily a daytime attraction. However, some nearby attractions, like Baiwang Mountain, may offer evening views, especially during sunset. Special tours can be arranged, but light shows are not typically part of the experience.
The Jingxi Ancient Road can get crowded during weekends and public holidays, especially in the summer months. For a more peaceful experience, try visiting on weekdays or during the off-season (autumn or early spring). Early morning or late afternoon visits can also help avoid crowds.
Facilities along the Jingxi Ancient Road are limited but available at key stops such as Zhaoyang Temple and Baiwang Mountain. These locations have basic amenities like toilets, rest areas, and small shops selling snacks and water. It's advisable to bring your own supplies for longer hikes.
While the Jingxi Ancient Road is mostly accessible for children and elderly visitors, some parts of the trail, especially the steep sections leading up to Baiwang Mountain, may be challenging for those with mobility issues. Wheelchair accessibility is limited along the road and at most sites.
Cash is accepted at most sites, but mobile payments and credit cards are becoming more common at major tourist spots like Baiwang Mountain and Zhaoyang Temple. It's always a good idea to carry some cash for smaller purchases or in more rural areas.
There are a few restaurants and cafes near the starting point of the Jingxi Ancient Road, mostly offering traditional Chinese meals. Local restaurants in nearby villages provide home-cooked meals, and there are some small eateries offering snacks and tea along the way.
Vegetarian and vegan food options are available in some local restaurants, especially in villages along the road. Halal food options are limited, but you may find some offerings in larger restaurants closer to the city center or at more popular tourist spots.
There are several hotels and guesthouses near the Jingxi Ancient Road, particularly in the nearby suburbs of Beijing. Most accommodations are in the form of small hotels or resorts offering traditional Chinese-style rooms. For more luxury options, visitors can stay closer to Beijing city center.
Nearby attractions include the Summer Palace, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is located just a short drive away. The Fragrant Hills and the Badachu Park are also close, offering beautiful parks and temples. These can all be easily combined for a day trip from the Jingxi Ancient Road.
There are souvenir shops at key stops along the Jingxi Ancient Road, especially near Zhaoyang Temple and Baiwang Mountain. Popular souvenirs include traditional Chinese crafts, tea sets, pottery, and local snacks. You can also find small trinkets like keychains and figurines representing the road's history.
After visiting the Jingxi Ancient Road, taxis or buses can be taken back to central Beijing. If you're heading to other attractions like the Summer Palace, it's best to use a taxi or metro for convenience. For longer trips, renting a car is a good option for exploring nearby areas.